Yule was a Viking word used to describe the winter solstice. They would cut a log and burn it to chase away evil spirits.
It eventually spread to many countries and religions. The Christians viewed it as a way to view goodness versus evil.
If it did not catch fire the first time lit it on Christmas Eve it was considered a sign of bad things to come for the year.
For more in the traditions of Christmas Series: The Christmas Tree, Mistletoe, Christmas Carols, Advent Wreath, Candy Canes
Click here for: For the history of popular Christmas songs, Christmas carols or The Story of Mary, the Mother of Jesus
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